Officers are examining a spate of rural offences throughout West Yorkshire following reports of diesel, farm equipment and construction machinery being taken from various sites during the seven-day period concluding April 19.
Bradford and Halifax experienced significant activity
In the Bradford area, offenders struck agricultural holdings between April 14 and 15, making off with fuel valued at approximately £1,200. This case represents one of numerous diesel thefts logged across the county during that timeframe.
Meanwhile in Halifax, multiple incidents were documented. On April 14, report was made of a red Honda TRX 4×4 light utility vehicle going missing, bearing the registration NX70 CZF. Between April 10 and 14, in another occurrence, a pair of Slantrac HT1000 tracked dumpers were removed from the premises.
Additional fuel thefts occurred in Halifax as well, heightening concerns about the level of criminal activity targeting countryside and semi-rural districts.
Fuel thefts in other areas
A substantial diesel theft was logged in Dewsbury on April 13, where roughly 2,250 litres of fuel were taken.
According to officers, fuel theft remains a prominent problem in rural criminal activity, with perpetrators frequently selecting farms, commercial sites and storage facilities where substantial fuel supplies are kept.
Vehicles and equipment targeted
A variety of automobiles and pieces of construction equipment were also taken from locations throughout West Yorkshire.
In Apperley Bridge, a Land Rover Defender bearing registration SR03 NKK was reported missing during the period April 14 to 17.
In Morley, a yellow JCB dumper was taken on April 17. The equipment, identified by serial number ending 5K0833, has since been located.
In Armley, report was made on April 18 of a child’s quad bike being stolen.
Pickup truck thefts throughout the area
Several pickup trucks were also taken during this period.
In Denholme, a bronze Toyota Hilux with registration N66 ENR was taken on April 15.
In East Ardsley, a black Nissan Navarra, registration DN71 VKS, was reported stolen on April 18.
Guidance from police
Through social media channels, police are encouraging community members to stay alert and notify authorities of any unusual behaviour. Those possessing details connected to any of these occurrences are asked to reach out to law enforcement.